The new Heythrop Park Golf Academy is teaming up with Golf Foundation’s Golf Roots programme to encourage youngsters to take up the game.

Free taster sessions using “Tri-Golf” adapted equipment have been offered to local primary schools.

Children receive a free voucher to attend one of the academy’s “Try Out” sessions on Saturday mornings or Wednesday evenings.

And more than half of the schools who received the offer have signed up and several schools have also booked the academy to run an after-school club during the summer term.

PGA professional Jonathan Shipstone, the academy’s new junior golf co-ordinator, said: “I am delighted with the response so far and am looking forward to developing positive working relationships with schools and community groups.”

Mark McGeehan, a PGA AA professional, has joined Shipstone to conduct the coaching.

He added: “It is an exciting time for me to come back to my grass roots and deliver structured player development programmes to benefit all levels of golfers.”

Heythrop Park Resort are also offering youngsters the chance to join with several membership options.

Monthly costs start from £19. For more details contact 01608 673 488.